Dillon Gee (7-0) pitched eight terrific innings, holding the Pirates to one run on eight hits, while striking out five. Gee’s 7-0 start is the best by a rookie to start a season since Jared Weaver’s 9-0 start for the Angels in 2006.

Angel Pagan picked up another multi-hit game with a 2 for 5 effort, including a triple and an RBI. Pagan has hit safely in 13 of 14 games since returning from the disabled list on May 27. During which, Pagan has raised his batting average from .178 to .246.

Lucas Duda went 1 for 4 with two RBI in his first start since being recalled from Triple-A Buffalo.

After snapping his twelve game hitting streak the night before, Jose Reyes bounced back with a 3 for 5 night, including his second homerun of the season.

Josh Thole hit three singles and drove in a run tonight in five at-bats.

Thought it was important for Duda to have a big game tonight to feel like he belongs. Thinks Duda will be a “very good player.”

He said Gee pitched great, did a good job controlling his emotions and making his pitches. He jokingly said Gee’s only flaw is his inability to bunt.

Jason Bay will be in the lineup tomorrow.

Carlos Beltran is ok. With the big lead, decided to give him additional rest.

Decided to pitch Tim Brydak in the ninth, as he will miss a few games due to a family illness.

Quick Post-Game Reaction:

Even with the Mets offensive output, it was all about Gee tonight. After giving up a run on three consecutive hits in the first inning, Gee settled in and pitched phenomenally over his remaining seven innings. Despite Gee’s mediocre stuff, he is locating all of his pitches well, mixing in his change-up and curveball.

The Mets offense made the most of the Pirates defensive woes tonight. It was good to see the Mets push the envelop, being aggressive and taking the extra base. The offensive production may not be the most powerful, but they are scoring runs in exciting fashion.

One win away from .500. With all the injuries and lineup shuffling, getting to and over .500 will be a significant achievement for this team. The starting pitching has been the focus of the team’s success of late, but you’re beginning to see a total team effort.

SNY’s Post Game Extra:

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Up Next:

R.A. Dickey (3-6, 4.04 ERA) starts the second game of the four-game series at PNC Park tomorrow. James McDonald (3-4, 4.97 ERA) takes the hill for the Pirates. Game time is set for 7:05 PM.

Added to by Matthew Cerrone:

I’d like to take a minute to welcome back Mike Nichols, who used to contribute to MetsBlog years ago. Nice job on the post-game tonight, Mike… welcome home.